Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for communities across the Peace Region and the Fort Nelson area.
Gavin King, a senior air quality meteorologist with the BC Ministry of Environment, said the warning was caused by smoke drifting in from the north.
“Over the weekend, there was a large pulse of smoke that was pushed down from the Northwest Territories,” said King.
According to the government of the Northwest Territories, there are currently 105 active wildfires in the territory, including 90 that are out-of-control, with several close to the BC border.
King expects the smoke to clear in the south of the Peace Region within the next 24 hours.
He said smoke from wildfires in southern BC is not currently affecting the Northeast, but the movement of smoke is difficult to predict.
“As we move later into the week, we may see some of the smoke from the fires in the central Cariboo being pushed northeast as well,” said King.
The province said there are currently 28 out-of-control wildfires in the Cariboo region, as well as 167 active wildfires across BC. Officials said 77 percent of fires are caused by lightning.
The province advises to reduce outside activity in smoky conditions. “Reducing those situations where you’re going to be hot and breathing smoky air while being active is best for your health,” said the meteorologist.
The province is reminding the public to report wildfires or irresponsible behaviour that could start one at 1-800-663-5555.